In this episode of Keeping the Dream Alive, Chris Finley and Stephan Stidfole return to the podcast to share the story behind the You're Not Alone (YANA) campaign and why its mission has become so important to the North Alabama community.

They discuss how YANA began as a grassroots effort between local defense industry partners and has grown into an annual event dedicated to supporting veterans through Still Serving Veterans. The conversation highlights the importance of preventive support for veterans, the challenges many face after military service, and how organizations across the region are working together to make a meaningful impact.

The episode also provides details about this year's YANA Night at Toyota Field on August 7, including how individuals and businesses can attend, sponsor the event, and help fill the stands in support of local veterans.

Whether you're a veteran, work alongside those who have served, or simply want to support an important cause, this conversation is a reminder that no one should have to face life's challenges alone.

https://ssv.org/event/you-are-not-alone-yana-trash-pandas-baseball-game/

Torch Technologies
https://torchtechnologies.com/

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In this episode of Keeping the Dream Alive, we sit down with Elizabeth Phoumavong of Torch Technologies to explore the work of the Employee Morale and Welfare Committee (EMWC). Elizabeth shares how the EMWC helps sustain Torch’s family-focused culture by organizing events ranging from company picnics and Christmas parties to ice cream socials, fall festivals, and community donation drives. She explains how the committee has evolved as Torch has grown, how employees across the company—including field offices—stay engaged, and why volunteer participation is such a defining part of Torch’s culture. We also discuss how new and longtime employees can get connected, find upcoming events, and get involved through committees and subcommittees.

Torch Technologies
https://torchtechnologies.com/

https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/

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In this episode of Keeping the Dream Alive, we sit down with Andrea Beasinger of Torch Technologies to explore the role of the Employee-Ownership Culture Committee (EOCC). Andrea explains how the committee energizes, empowers, and educates employee-owners through programs like ESOP Basics, deep-dive sessions, and quarterly lunches with the president. She also shares how employees can get involved, participate in events, or join the committee through Torch’s nomination process. It’s a clear look at how the EOCC strengthens connection, communication, and ownership across the company.

Torch Technologies
https://torchtechnologies.com/

https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/

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https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/

In this episode of Keeping the Dream Alive, we sit down with Amanda Clark of Torch Technologies to break down what Enterprise Program Management (EPM) is and why it plays such a crucial role within the company. Amanda explains how EPM oversees major umbrella contract vehicles, supports proposal efforts, and works across business units to align the right teams for each opportunity. She also shares how the group collaborates with leadership, business development, and technical teams to manage programs from pursuit through closeout. It’s a clear look at how EPM keeps Torch integrated, competitive, and focused on supporting both customers and employee owners.

Torch Technologies
https://torchtechnologies.com/

https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/

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https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/

In this episode of Keeping the Dream Alive, we sit down with Joe Pierce of Starfish Holdings to break down what artificial intelligence really is and why it has become such a major part of everyday life. Joe explains the differences between AI, machine learning, and deep learning, along with common ways we all use AI without even realizing it. We also dig into the biggest concerns companies face today—from privacy and data protection to the rising sophistication of AI-driven cyber threats. Joe shares how Starfish and the Torch family of companies are approaching AI responsibly while empowering their people and improving productivity. It’s a clear, grounded conversation about the opportunities and challenges ahead as AI continues to evolve.

Torch Technologies
https://torchtechnologies.com/

https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all

https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/

In this episode, Sam shares his journey from starting his career at Eglin Air Force Base to joining Torch in 2016, where he helped launch and grow Torch’s first Armament contract. We also dive into the future of the Air Force Weapons Group and the talented leadership team Sam has built to continue Torch’s mission of serving the warfighter.

Torch Technologies
https://torchtechnologies.com/

https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all

https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/

In this episode, we’re joined by Jennifer Bentley, Alabama Chapter Director for Breakthrough T1D, and Lee Holland, President of Freedom Real Estate & Capital, to spotlight the upcoming Huntsville Breakthrough T1D Walk.

Jennifer shares the mission of Breakthrough T1D, the world’s leading organization funding Type 1 Diabetes research. From raising awareness to supporting families and driving progress toward a cure, the organization plays a vital role in the fight against T1D.

We also hear from Lee on why Freedom Real Estate partnered as the presenting sponsor for the walk, how this cause hits close to home, and why community involvement is a core part of their values. Together, they discuss the significance of hosting the event at Hays Farm, the importance of participation, and the many ways individuals, families, and businesses can get involved.

The walk takes place Sunday, October 26th at 2:00 PM at Hays Farm, offering the community an opportunity to support loved ones living with T1D, celebrate progress, and raise awareness.

https://www2.breakthrought1d.org/site/TR?fr_id=10360&pg=entry

Torch Technologies
https://torchtechnologies.com/

https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/

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https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/

On this episode of Keeping the Dream Alive, we’re joined by Tyce Hudson of Freedom Real Estate & Capital. With more than two decades of experience at Turner Construction and nearly four years at Freedom, Tyce shares his career journey and why he wishes he had made the move to Freedom sooner.

We dive into Freedom’s advisory services—what they are, who they are for, and how they help owners successfully navigate the complexities of construction projects. From mitigating risks to saving clients hundreds of thousands of dollars through practical, real-world insights, Tyce explains why having Freedom on your team more than pays for itself.

Torch Technologies
https://torchtechnologies.com/

https://www.instagram.com/torchtechnologiesinc/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/torch-technologies-inc./posts/?feedView=all

https://www.facebook.com/TorchTechnologiesInc/